Steinmeier: Supporting schools for cohesion
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has called for more support for schools in the face of growing conflicts in classrooms and playgrounds as a result of the Gaza war. It is about strengthening cohesion in diverse school communities, he said on Thursday at a round table in Bellevue Palace on the topic of "Conflict in the classroom: the Middle East war and our schools". "We need to focus on preventing hatred and violence instead of always playing firefighter when there is a fire. This is our responsibility for peaceful coexistence in our country. This demands our responsibility for our democracy," said Steinmeier.
Schools are schools of democracy, places of diversity where young people from different backgrounds, backgrounds and experiences come together. They are also places of freedom of expression, where ambivalent and irritating opinions are allowed, said Steinmeier. "Schools of democracy are places of openness, yes. But they are not neutral when it comes to the foundations and prerequisites for peaceful coexistence in our country, the coexistence of differences."
Every pupil must know German history, Steinmeier demanded. "Everyone must know what Auschwitz means and what responsibility it entails for us."
Schools reflect the entire spectrum of feelings that the Middle East conflict triggers in our society - not just since October 7, but in a special way since then. This is noticeable in very different ways. "Some pupils withdraw, others want to discuss, others attract attention through provocations, some want to see Israel wiped off the map." These are huge challenges for schools. It is great what school administrators and teachers are doing in this situation.
Federal President Steinmeier emphasized the importance of addressing conflicts in schools, particularly those stemming from the Gaza war, as they can lead to tensions in classrooms and playgrounds. In light of these challenges, he urged a shift from reactionary measures to preventing hatred and violence, emphasizing our collective responsibility for peaceful coexistence and democracy. Additionally, Steinmeier highlighted the role of schools as democracies in miniature, places where diverse perspectives are fostered, yet emphasized their responsibility in promoting peaceful coexistence and understanding of historical responsibilities, such as the significance of Auschwitz.
Source: www.dpa.com
